Emotional Farewell at Central Synagogue

In a poignant ceremony at Central Synagogue in Midtown Manhattan, the daughter of Wesley LePatner, a Blackstone executive tragically killed in a shooting, delivered a moving eulogy. Addressing hundreds of mourners, the 14-year-old expressed her profound grief and disbelief over her mother’s untimely death. “My mom was like my rock,” she shared, highlighting the deep bond they shared. The tragic incident occurred earlier this week when a gunman opened fire in the lobby of 345 Park Avenue, resulting in four fatalities before the shooter took his own life.

A Family’s Unimaginable Loss

The young girl recounted her shock and sorrow, stating, “I never imagined this happening when I was 14.” Her words resonated with those present, capturing the unimaginable reality faced by her family. Wesley LePatner’s husband, Evan LePatner, also spoke at the funeral, describing his wife as a “giant” whose absence leaves a “Mount Everest-sized hole” in their lives. The couple met at Yale University and have two children together.

Remembering Wesley LePatner

Wesley LePatner served as the CEO of Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust. Her father, Larry Mittman, reminisced about her early years, recalling her intelligent eyes as a newborn. Friends and colleagues remembered her as a remarkable individual who made the world better for everyone around her.

Community Mourns Multiple Losses

The shooting also claimed the lives of NYPD Officer Didarul Islam, security guard Aland Etienne, and a Rudin employee. Services were held across the city to honor these victims. Merryl Tisch, mother of NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch and former board colleague of LePatner at UJA-Federation of New York, referred to her as a “beautiful friend” during a vigil.

A Daughter’s Heartfelt Tribute

In closing her eulogy, LePatner’s daughter expressed how much she misses her mother. “Every time I hear the doorbell ring I think it’s her,” she said, underscoring the depth of her loss.